Have you ever caught yourself acting in a way that didn’t quite feel like the real you?
Maybe you were being overly defensive or holding back from expressing your true feelings. This could signify that one of your protector parts has taken over.
As we approach the New Moon in Virgo (tomorrow), it supports creating space for healing, self-reflection, and setting new intentions. It’s also the perfect moment to explore the hidden aspects of ourselves that may be operating from a place of protection rather than authenticity.
Virgo’s discerning energy invites us to refine our inner world and move towards a more integrated self.
Our protector parts are like the bodyguards of our psyche. They’ve developed over time to shield us from emotional pain or perceived threats, and while they’ve served us well, there comes a point when these parts can begin to limit our growth. As Wayne Dyer famously said, the ego can …
E dge
G od
O ut
Our egos can activate defense mechanisms that keep us stuck in old patterns rather than allowing us to reach our full potential.
Sometimes, we may not even be consciously aware of how we show up "in protection." These protector parts can be so ingrained that they become automatic responses.
However, if we take the time to notice when we're sending out what I call our "representatives"—those polished, guarded versions of ourselves—we can begin to bring awareness to these patterns and move towards a more authentic, heart-led self-expression.
So, in light of the New Moon energy upon us, I invite you to dive deep into this shadow with me. The first step is to become aware of how protector parts show up. I have another EGO acronym to help you remember the key indicators:
E = Examine: Examine your reactions. Are you feeling defensive, dismissive, or overly concerned with how others perceive you? These are common signs that a protector part is in charge. Emotions like frustration or irritation may surface, masking deeper feelings that need attention.
G = Gauge: Gauge your language. Pay attention to whether you’re using phrases like “I’m fine,” “I am just going to___,” or “It’s no big deal” when you’re actually feeling hurt, annoyed, or overwhelmed. This could indicate that your protector parts are suppressing your true emotions. Recognizing these patterns can help you uncover and address what you might be avoiding.
O = Observe: Observe your body. Notice physical sensations such as chest tightness, a stomach knot, or shoulder tension. These physical responses often signal that a protector part is activated, guarding against emotional vulnerability.
Techniques for Breaking Through:
Mindful Awareness: Awareness is always where any healing begins. By simply noticing when you feel a protector part coming up. Take a moment to pause, breathe, and acknowledge it without judgment.
Self-Inquiry: Ask yourself, “What am I trying to protect right now?” “What is really irritating me?” or “What’s the fear behind this reaction?” This can help bring unconscious motivations to the surface.
Visualization: Imagine having a conversation with your protector part. Thank it for its service and gently ask it to step aside, allowing your true self to come forward.
Body-Centered Practices: Engage in practices like yoga, Qi Gong, somatic pilates, or even simple stretching to help release the physical tension that often accompanies protector parts.
It is so vital to identify and work with these signals.
Operating from unintegrated protector parts can lead to a range of health issues, from chronic stress and anxiety to more severe conditions like heart disease or digestive disorders.
One of my favorite trusted sources, Dr. Michael Lincoln, suggests when these parts are not acknowledged and integrated, they can manifest as physical symptoms, as the body often stores the energy of unprocessed emotions.
While I highly recommend his resources, I also want to invite you to listen to your subtle feelings and emotions before they manifest in your body.
By becoming aware of these protector parts and taking steps to integrate them, we can begin to heal our emotional wounds and improve our physical health. This integration journey is about moving from a place of protection to a place of authentic, heart-centered living.
The next time you feel defensive or closed off in a situation, pause and take three deep breaths. Acknowledge that this protector part is showing up. Then, consciously choose to respond from a place of openness and authenticity. Notice how this shift impacts both the situation and your internal state.
Let’s use the energy of this New Moon in Virgo to continue our journey of self-discovery, stepping beyond our defenses and embracing our true, authentic selves. This is where long-lasting healing begins.
With love and listening
Alara
